Armored Core is a third-person shooter mecha video game series developed by FromSoftware, first released in 1997. The games focus on a silent protagonist who pilots large customizable robot combat units called Armored Cores (ACs) as a mercenary, completing missions for various corporate and private clients to earn credits for upgrades and new opportunities

. The series has multiple story continuities across 13 main games, seven spin- offs, and remastered versions. The settings typically involve futuristic or post-apocalyptic worlds where corporations and factions vie for power, often involving underground or off-world colonies. The gameplay centers on mission- based combat, mech customization with hundreds of parts and weapons, and strategic choices affecting story progression. Arena modes allow player- versus-player battles for rewards

. The latest entry, Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon , released in 2023, is a reboot set on the distant planet Rubicon 3, where mercenaries fight over a valuable resource called Coral amidst corporate and local conflicts. It is available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows

. Key features of the franchise include:

• Highly customizable mechs limited by weight and energy constraints, affecting speed, defense, and firepower.
• Mission-based gameplay with branching storylines and multiple endings.
• Arena modes for competitive battles.
• Reboots and story arcs exploring different futuristic and post-apocalyptic settings.
• Spin-offs focusing on arena combat and AI strategy

The series is known for its fast-paced action, deep customization, and challenging combat, with Armored Core VI receiving praise as a top action game of its year

. In summary, Armored Core is a renowned mecha combat series blending action, customization, and narrative set in complex futuristic worlds.